Politics

Analysis: Iraqi elections approach, with high stakes for energy sector

Political insiders weigh in on potential election outcomes and their implications for the country’s investment climate.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani (center) and Oil Minister Hayyan Abdulghani (right) attend a ceremony to mark the opening of a 50 MW power plant at the Baiji refinery on Aug. 2, 2025. (Photo credit: Oil Ministry media office)

Nov 13, 2019

Ghadhban reshuffles and streamlines Oil Ministry

The oil minister has officially confirmed his deputies, transferred or retired key officials, and put HFO sales under SOMO's purview.

Nov 7, 2019

Iraqi Cabinet decisions: Nov. 5, 2019

Whenever the media office of the Council of Ministers releases decisions of the Cabinet, Iraq Oil Report publishes a translation from the original Arabic.

Nov 6, 2019

Protests force first oil field shut-in

The stoppage at small Qayarah field could foreshadow larger impact of anti-government protests on oil sector.

Oct 31, 2019

Iraqi Cabinet decisions: Oct. 29, 2019

Whenever the media office of the Council of Ministers releases decisions of the Cabinet, Iraq Oil Report publishes a translation from the original Arabic.

Oct 31, 2019

Rising tide of Iraqi protest movement reaches oil sector

Oil workers are organizing to show solidarity with protesters, and demonstrations are targeting key oil sites directly – increasing pressure on an already faltering government.

Oct 30, 2019

Oil Ministry appoints new acting Basra oil chief

As the new acting head of the Basra Oil Company, Bassim Abdulkarim will oversee the majority of Iraq's oil production, cementing the ouster of Ihsan Ismaael.

Oct 26, 2019

Renewed protests challenge Iraqi government as death toll rises

Dozens dead and thousands injured as protesters and security forces clash around southern Iraq.

Oct 20, 2019

As protesters regroup, government faces pivotal test

Widespread demonstrations are expected to resume this week, posing a challenge to a government whose recent crackdowns have undermined its standing with citizens and religious authorities.

Oct 18, 2019

Iraq braces for Syria fallout

Refugees are already crossing the border and Iraqi security forces are contingency planning for a revived Islamic State insurgency.

Oct 16, 2019

Ismaael removed as head of Basra Oil Company

One of Iraq's top oil leaders has been dismissed, as the Cabinet enacts orders to replace dozens of directors general.